21–23 June 2026 | Hempcrete construction course | with Ovanes Chodzakar | 3 days | Fees from 1200 RON
A course dedicated to hempcrete construction, where you will learn how to prepare and apply the material correctly, what performance it delivers, and in which contexts it is suitable to use.
Right after the natural building course led by Németh János (18–20 June 2026), Ermitaj Malin hosts a specialised training focused on hemp based construction, led by Ovanes Chodzakar.
Participants who want to deepen their use of natural materials are encouraged to join both courses. Together, they offer a broader and more coherent perspective on regenerative building.
This course focuses mainly on hempcrete (hemp and lime), and also includes an introduction to hemp cultivation, technical production pathways, the Romanian legal framework, and possible value chains.
The training combines theory and hands on practice.
What the course covers
- Hempcrete construction fundamentals
- Mix ratios and recipes
- Thermal performance and humidity regulation
- Wall insulation systems
- Formwork and casting techniques
- Compatibility between hemp lime and other natural materials
- Durability and long term behaviour
Beyond the technical side, the course also addresses:
- Introduction to industrial hemp cultivation
- Technical pathways for seed production and woody core processing
- Legal aspects of hemp cultivation in Romania
- Processing and value chains
- Potential markets and applications of hemp in construction and beyond
Participants will gain practical building skills and a broader understanding of hemp as a regenerative system.
Practice
Hands on sessions include:
- Preparing and mixing hempcrete
- Setting up formwork
- Pouring and compacting the material
- Discussions around real world application scenarios
Learning happens through direct practice, within the living context of Ermitaj Malin.
Trainer
Ovanes Chodzakar
Ovanes Chodzakar is a practitioner specialised in hemp based natural building and the founder of “Câneparul Ovanes”, a hemp production initiative in Suceava County.
After several years in the United Kingdom, he returned to Romania and transitioned from the medical field to entrepreneurship, focusing on industrial hemp cultivation and processing. He currently manages hemp crops and works with seeds, oil, and the woody core used in construction.
His experience connects agriculture with natural building practice, offering participants a concrete understanding of hemp as a regenerative plant and a building material. He shares practical knowledge about cultivation, Romanian legal aspects, processing, and the application of hemp and lime based systems.
Who this course is for
This course is open to:
People interested in natural building and bio based materials
Architects, builders, and designers exploring sustainable solutions
Farmers or landowners interested in hemp cultivation
Permaculture practitioners and eco builders
Participants should be comfortable with hands on outdoor work.
The course will be confirmed once the minimum of 12 participants is reached.
Practical information
Location
Ermitaj Malin is an off grid learning place rooted in permaculture, ecological building, and regenerative ways of living. The land functions as a living classroom, with an orchard, garden, pasture, and forest.
Before arrival, we recommend reading the registration process and the house rules. More about Ermitaj Malin.
What the fee includes
- course organisation
- accommodation or access to the camping area
- meals from the first morning to lunch on the last day
- trainer fees and kitchen team fees
- Water, tea, coffee, and snacks are available during breaks
The pricing system is based on monthly household income. Early Bird applies to registrations made at least two months before the course starts.
Price grid
| Monthly household income | Standard fee | Early Bird |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | 1200 RON | 1080 RON |
| Category 2 | 1400 RON | 1260 RON |
| Category 3 | 1600 RON | 1440 RON |
| Category 4 | 1800 RON | 1620 RON |
Registration
Registration is done via the form available here.
